Mobile device grip

ABSTRACT

A mobile device has at least one grip handle disposed on the back surface of the mobile device. The grip handle comprises at least one grip surface that enables a user to grasp the mobile device and use it with one hand of the user. Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of 35 U.S.C. § 111(b) U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/795,496, filed Oct. 18, 2012,entitled “Mobile Device Grip”.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY-SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION (1) Field of the Invention

This invention relates to grips that help the human hand(s) to bettergrasp mobile devices.

(2) Description of the Related Art

Some mobile devices are small enough to be grasped on both sides by anormal human hand. However, other mobile devices are too large toconveniently grasp both sides with the normal human hand. These deviceshave, in the past, been typically held by grasping one edge or balancingit in the palm of the hand. Doing either of these is inconvenient.Typically, people must use two hands to securely hold the device. Butthen people do not have a free hand to tap, scroll, or otherwise addressthe mobile device manually.

On small tablet computers and cell phones, people typically use, or wantto use, one hand to hold the mobile device. People tend to hold smallerdevices more toward the fingertips of their hand, leaving their thumbfree to curl around the front of the device so that the thumb can reachand touch all points on the screen of the device. By using only one handon the device, people can use their other hand to open doors, carryobjects, hold a child's hand, and so forth. However, some cell phonesand many tablet computers are getting too wide to do this comfortably.

Mobile devices may include cell phones, iPods, iPads, tablet computers,handheld computers, PDAs, and other types of devices. In particular,tablet computers are becoming very popular in the market, and most aretoo large to be conveniently held with one hand. Users of tabletcomputers and other types of mobile devices usually need a free hand sothat they can address the device with one or more fingers of the freehand. Addressing the device may include tapping or placing one or morefingers of the free hand on the device's screen to enter information orcontrol the device.

It would be desirable if there was a way to conveniently, comfortably,and reliably grasp a mobile device with only one hand of a person. Onesort of grasping mechanism is the “Flygrip” which can be viewed atwww.flygrip.com. However, the Flygrip is undesirable for multiplereasons.

Typically, grasping of an object will occur by the person placing thethumb against one edge, placing one or more fingers of the same handagainst the opposing edge, and then squeezing the thumb toward thefingers or vice versa. The two edges are typically opposing in that thesurface of the first edge on which the thumb is placed is orientedroughly 180 degrees away from the surface of the second edge on whichthe finger(s) are placed. The distance between the two opposing edges isa matter of design choice, but typically is chosen to be a distancewhich most people can comfortably spread their fingers from their thumb.It should also be noted that people can use the portion of the hand'spalm directly below the thumb, called the thenar, which is also movablein the same manner as the thumb itself.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A mobile device can be any device having a display screen (which mightbe a touch screen) and associated electronics, which is small enough andlight enough for some persons to hold it in one hand. Mobile devices mayinclude smart phones, cell phones, tablet computers, iPads, controlunits, display screens, touch screens, remote control devices, and othersuch devices. This list is not inclusive.

My invention is the provision a grip on the back of the mobile device,the grip being of a size which can be conveniently and comfortablygripped by one hand of a person. The grip handles are made of a materialthat is both sturdy and can be grasped securely by the human hand. Thegrip can be integrally formed in the back of the mobile device, or itcan be one or more separate pieces that are attached to the back of themobile device. The grip may have only one position, or it may have twoor more positions. For example, the grip may comprise one or morehandles. At least one of the handles may fold down into or flat againstthe back side of the mobile device. Alternatively, at least one of thehandles of the grip may move between three or more positions. Oneposition could be a completely folded position where grasping is notpossible; a second position could be a completely open position wheregrasping is possible; other positions may be intermediate positionswhere grasping is possible from different angles.

The grip and/or the grip mounting elements can be formed integrally withthe mobile device or with its protective case, or the grip and/or thegrip mounting elements can be separate elements that are attached to themobile device or its protective case with screws, magnets, adhesive, orany other suitable means.

The grip of my invention can be placed on the housing or body of themobile device, or to a cover device that at least partially encloses themobile device. As long as the grip will enable a person to relativelysecurely grasp and hold with one hand the mobile device, or somethingthat is holding it, then it comes within the scope of my invention.

Any handle that has more than one position can be spring-loaded so thatit is biased to normally reside in one position but can be easily movedto another position. Any movable handle can be attached at a pivot pointby any known mechanism such as a hinge or a pivot. The movable handlecan be fastened in one position by any known mechanism such as a clickfastener, a lock mechanism, a magnet or the like.

The edge of the handle can be arranged in different ways. The edge maybe flat or curved or formed into multiple “finger holds”. If two handlesare provided, or if one handle has two sides, then each handle or sidemay be formed differently. One might be formed for a thumb and the otherfor one or more fingers. The handles may be formed for being held by theright or the left hand of a person. Alternatively, the handle may bemade such that its orientation can be reversed: one way for beinggripped by the right hand and the other way for being gripped by theleft hand. Alternatively, the handle(s) may be uni-directional andcapable of being gripped by either the right or left hand comfortably.

The handle(s) may extend from the back of the mobile device or theycould be recessed into the device. If the handle(s) are to be attachedto the device after it is manufactured, the handle(s) may be recessedinto a mostly flat body and the body itself attached to the mobiledevice so that it has a mostly flat back with the gripping handle(s)recessed therein.

If the back of the mobile device and/or the grip itself has or resultsin any open space in the mobile device as a whole, that open space canbe used as storage for any other suitable item. For example, a stylus ora writing instrument or paper or keys or credit cards or any othersuitable item could be stored in such an open space.

The grip can be formed of any one or more of metal, plastic, rubber,glass, wood, foam, gel or any other suitable material that issufficiently strong, light, and graspable. If a particular material isnot sufficiently graspable, the surface which the person will grasp canbe roughened or notched in some manner to provide better graspability.For example, steel or aluminum tend to be slippery to a human hand orfinger, so it may be desirable to roughen the surface which the thumb,finger, or hand will grasp to provide better purchase.

The grip can be made from a metal or plastic bar. There may be one bar,in which case the person will use one hand to grasp one edge of thedevice and the one bar. Or there may be two bars, in which case theperson could use one hand to grasp both bars. Alternatively, a personcould use one of the two bars for right-handed use in conjunction withone edge of the mobile device, or the person could use the other of thetwo bars for left-handed use in conjunction with the opposite edge ofthe mobile device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows the first preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows an end view of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a second preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows an end view of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows a third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows an end view of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows an end view of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 shows a fifth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 shows an end view of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 shows a sixth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 shows an end view of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 shows a seventh embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 shows an end view of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 shows an eighth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 shows an end view of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 shows a ninth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 shows an end view of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 shows a tenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 shows an end view of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 shows an eleventh embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 shows an end view of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 shows a twelfth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 shows an end view of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 shows a thirteenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26 shows an end view of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 shows a fourteenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 shows an end view of FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 shows a fifteenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 shows an end view of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 shows a sixteenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 32 shows an end view of FIG. 31.

FIG. 33 shows a seventeenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34 shows an end view of FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 shows an eighteenth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 36 shows an end view of FIG. 35.

FIG. 37 shows a nineteenth embodiment of the invention in the deployedposition.

FIG. 38 shows a side view of FIG. 37.

FIG. 39 shows the nineteenth embodiment in the stored position.

FIG. 40 shows a side view of FIG. 39.

FIG. 41 shows a twentieth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 42 shows an end view of a first version of FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 shows an end view of a second version of FIG. 41.

FIG. 44 shows a twenty-first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 45 shows an end view of a first version of FIG. 44.

FIG. 46 shows an end view of a second version of FIG. 44.

FIG. 47 shows a twenty-second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 48 shows an end view of FIG. 47.

FIG. 49 shows a twenty-third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 50 shows an end view of FIG. 49.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Mobile devices are suited for a person to hold with one or both hands.Mobile devices come in many different sizes. Some devices can be easilyand conveniently held with one hand, but some devices have a size orwidth or shape that makes them less easy or convenient to hold with onehand. For example, the Apple iPhone 4 has a width and size that can becomfortably grasped with one hand by many, if not most, people. TheSamsung Galaxy SIII, however, is about 12 millimeters wider and, assuch, cannot be comfortably and securely grasped in one hand by manypeople.

FIG. 1 shows a first preferred embodiment of my invention. The back side11 of a mobile device is shown gripped in the hand 13 of a person, suchthat the display screen of the mobile device can be convenientlyoriented toward the eyes of the person holding the device. One edge 15of the mobile device is shown nestled into the palm of one hand of theperson. The fingers of that hand are shown grasping an elongated fingergrip 16 disposed on the back of the device or its protective cover. Bysqueezing between the palm and fingers the edge of the mobile device andthe finger grip, the person can easily, comfortably, and securely holdand manipulate the mobile device with one hand, even if the deviceitself is too wide for that hand to conveniently and securely hold thedevice without the elongated finger grip. The finger grip 16 has atleast one gripping surface 17 that is approximately perpendicular to theplane of the back of the mobile device.

FIG. 2 shows an end view of FIG. 1. The finger grip 16 shown in FIG. 1can be disposed at any suitable location on the back of the mobiledevice. A typical disposition is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, but the fingergrip 16 could be disposed at any position on the back 11 of the mobiledevice. Location would normally depend on the size of the hand 13 of theperson who will use the device.

The finger grip 16 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be integrally molded withthe housing of the mobile device at the time it is manufactured, or itcould be attached to the back 11 of the mobile device at a later time.If it is attached later, it can be attached with a suitable adhesive orby welding, tacking, or the like, or it could be attached with screws,rivets, strong magnets, or the like. Any suitable attachment means whichholds the finger grip 16 securely to the mobile device (or itsprotective cover) will accomplish the purpose of this invention.Alternatively, one may provide multiple mounting points along the backside 11 of the mobile device and provide a finger grip 16 that can beremovably attached such that a person could attach it at one location,remove it, and re-attach it at a different location on the back 11 ofthe mobile device. Alternatively, the finger grip 16 may be part of anattachment piece on which it can be moved between two or more positions.The attachment piece would be attached to the mobile device and then thefinger grip part of the attachment piece could be moved between multiplepositions, at each of which it could be secured.

It is apparent from FIGS. 1 and 2 that the size of the finger grip 16 isnot critical as long as the human hand 13 or fingers for which it isdesigned can grasp it securely and in relative comfort. The actual sizeand shape of the finger grip 16 is a matter of design choice which canbe chosen by persons of ordinary skill in this art who have learned ofthis invention.

Although the finger grip 16 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is shown with acurved portion on one side, the finger grip 16 could be made with asquare or rectangular cross-section, such that it could be gripped by aperson's fingers on either side of the finger grip 16, thereby making itsuitable for being held by either the right or left hands of the person.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show a second preferred embodiment of this invention. Atypical mobile device 31 has a gripping device 33 on its back side,which is the side opposite the display screen. An end view of FIG. 3 isshown in FIG. 4. The shape of the gripping device 33 can be seen fromFIG. 3 and FIG. 4. The gripping device has two opposing grippingsurfaces 35 and 36 spaced a suitable distance apart. The gripping device33 comprises two separate gripping surfaces 35 and 36 that are eachroughly perpendicular to the back surface of the device 31. The twogripping surfaces 35 and 36 face in opposite directions as is apparentfrom the drawing. Each gripping surface 35 and 36 extends apredetermined distance along the length of the back of the device 31.The size of the gripping surface 35 or 36, both its width and itslength, are matters of design choice. A person of ordinary skill in thisart, having learned of this invention, will be able to choose thesesizes to accommodate some, most, or all human fingers as the design ofthe device might require. In addition, while the gripping surfaces 35and 36 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are parallel to one another, it ispossible to angle them with respect to one another as long as the handwill be able to grasp the device conveniently and securely.

One possible manner of using the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 isfor a person to place one or more fingers on one opposing grippingsurface, and place either the thumb or the thenar of the hand on theother opposing surface. By squeezing, the person can securely hold andmanipulate the mobile device with one hand. It is apparent from thedrawings that the gripping device 33 is narrower than the mobile device31. The exact shape of the gripping device 33 is a matter of designchoice as long as it can be securely and comfortably grasped by one handof a human. If the gripping device 33 is hollow, it could be used tostore items inside it. The gripping device 33 can be formed integrallywith the housing of the mobile device 31 or integrally with a cover usedto partially enclose it. Alternatively, the gripping device 33 can be aseparate device that is attached to the mobile device 31 or its cover.

A second possible manner of using the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4is for a person to cradle a first edge 37 of the mobile device in thecrevice between the palm's thenar and hypothenar, and to grasp with thefingers the grip surface 36 opposite the first edge. This enables thethumb to arch over the top surface of the mobile device 31 and tap itsscreen at all possible points on the screen. A person of ordinary skillin this art would be able to devise other obvious ways of using theembodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

FIG. 5 shows a third preferred embodiment of this invention. FIG. 5shows the back side of a mobile device 51 that has two elongated hollowsor recessed portions 53 and 54 in back surface of the mobile device'shousing or protective cover. FIG. 6 shows an end view of FIG. 5. In FIG.6, one can see that there are two opposing grip surfaces 55 and 56, onein each elongated hollow or recessed portion in the back of the mobiledevice. The two opposing grip surfaces 55 and 56 face in oppositedirections and are each generally perpendicular to the width and lengthof the device 51, although they could be somewhat angled from theperpendicular. The width and length of the grip surfaces 55 and 56, andthe size and shape of the hollows or recessed portions 53 and 54, is amatter of design choice. The distance between the two grip surfaces 55and 56 is also a matter of design choice.

The person using the mobile device 51 can grasp the device by grippingand holding the two opposing grip surfaces 55 and 56. Alternatively, aperson can cradle a first edge 57 of the mobile device in the crevice ofthe hand's palm between the thenar and the hypothenar, and insert one ormore fingers in the elongated recessed portion 54 opposite the firstedge of the mobile device to grip the grip surface 56 in that recessedportion. A person of ordinary skill in this art will be able to deviseother obvious ways of using the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

Although FIGS. 5 and 6 show the grip surfaces 55 and 56 totally recessedinto the body of the mobile device, the grip surfaces could be disposedsuch that they are partly recessed and partly protruding from the backof the mobile device. One of ordinary skill in this art who reads thisdisclosure will be able to conceive of various ways to arrange thegripping surfaces which are obvious modifications of this disclosure.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show an embodiment that is similar to that of FIGS. 5 and6. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, there are two slots or cavities 73and 74 in the body or housing of the mobile device 71 on its back. Theexact shape, depth, and location of the slots or cavities 73 or 74 are amatter of design choice. Each of the slots or cavities 73 and 74 has atleast one grip surface 75 and 76 that is a wall of the slot or cavitywherein the wall is approximately perpendicular to the back surface ofthe mobile device 71. As one of ordinary skill in this art will readilysee, a person could grasp and hold the mobile device by inserting athumb in one slot or cavity, and one or more fingers into the other slotor cavity shown in FIG. 7. Depending on how the person holds the mobiledevice, the weight of the mobile device might cause it to rest on thethumb or fingers more toward the top or bottom of the slots or cavitiesin the mobile device. Alternatively, a person can cradle a first edge 77of the mobile device 71 in the crevice of the hand's palm between thethenar and the hypothenar, and insert one or more fingers in the slot 73opposite the first edge of the mobile device, gripping that slot's gripsurface 75. If done in this manner, the person could use either the leftor the right hand. The outer edges of both slots can be used forcarrying the device. A person of ordinary skill in this art will be ableto devise other obvious ways of using the embodiment shown in FIG. 7.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show another embodiment that might be practical formobile devices of a particular width. It may be possible to provide onlyone slot or cavity 93 in the back of the body or housing of the mobiledevice 91. The slot or cavity 93 can have one or two grip surfaces 97and 98 which are the walls of the slot or cavity 93. The person couldthen, with either hand, place one edge of the mobile device against thepalm of the hand (or the thumb) and insert one or more fingers into thesingle slot or cavity 93, and thereby grasp and hold the mobile devicewith one hand. Alternatively, but less likely, a person could place athumb of one hand within the slot or cavity 93, and place the fingers ofthat hand around an edge 95 of the mobile device. For some widths ofmobile devices, this embodiment will not be practical, as is plainlyapparent. The width, depth, and length of the slot 93 would be a designchoice that can be made by a person of ordinary skill in this art whohas learned of this invention.

For the embodiment of FIG. 7, the elongated side walls of each of thetwo slots or cavities form gripping surfaces for gripping or holding thedevice, either when using it or when carrying it. For the embodiment ofFIG. 9, the elongated side walls of the slot or cavity form grippingsurfaces. In particular, the walls of the slot or cavity may be shapedto be approximately perpendicular to the back surface of the mobiledevice so that they can be gripped securely by a person's finger(s). Thewalls may be textured or roughened to increase purchase by thefinger(s). It may also be desirable to extend the back surface of themobile device outwards slightly around the cavity or cavities to provideextra surface for gripping. This outward extension of the grippingsurfaces would slope back to the normal flat surface of the back of themobile device.

FIGS. 11 and 12 show another embodiment having a retractable grippinghandle. FIG. 12 is an end view showing the bottom end of a mobile device111 and a retractable gripping handle 113 mounted on the back largesurface of the mobile device 111. The gripping handle 113 can simply bea flat planar gripping body 115, or a body that conforms to whatevercurve the mobile device body might have at that location. One edge ofthe gripping body 115 is pivotally attached to the body of the mobiledevice 111 and there is a recessed portion 117 in the body of the mobiledevice 111 into which the gripping body 115 can lie such that it isflush with the body of the mobile device 111.

In use, a person can use a finger to lift the gripping body up to aposition roughly perpendicular to the plane of the body of the mobiledevice at that location. There may be some sort of indentation thatallows the person to insert a finger or fingernail under the grippingbody to raise it. It may or may not be spring-biased such that itnormally lies closed or flush with the mobile device in the recessedportion. When pulled open, the farthest angle of travel may beapproximately 90-degrees (that is, perpendicular to the plane of thebody of the mobile device) or some other appropriate angle that enablesthe user to conveniently hold and manipulate the mobile device.

There could be one or more gripping handles disposed on a mobile device.The exact location of the retractable gripping handle(s) on the back ofthe mobile device, and the width, thickness, and length of the grippingbody(s) are all matters of design choice. A person of ordinary skill inthis art, after learning of this invention, will be able to choose thoseto suit the particular mobile device and needs of the user.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show another embodiment having a retractable grippinghandle. FIG. 14 is an end view showing the bottom end of a mobile device131 and a retractable gripping handle 133 mounted on the back surface ofthe mobile device 131. The gripping handle has an attachment body 135that is secured to the back surface of the mobile device 131 (or itscover). The attachment body 135 is also pivotally attached to a grippingbody 137 that has a grip surface 139. The gripping body 137 can be movedsuch that it is adjacent and parallel to the attachment body, or it canbe moved such that it stays at a 90-degree angle to the attachment body,as is shown. The pivot may be spring-loaded such that the gripping body137 normally stays adjacent and parallel to the attachment body, beingmoved perpendicular only by mild force, as when a finger grips it tohold the mobile device 131, or it may not be spring-loaded.

There could be one or more retractable gripping handles disposed on amobile device. The exact location of the retractable gripping handle(s)on the back of the mobile device, the width, thickness, and length ofthe gripping handle(s), and the size of the attachment body(s) are allmatters of design choice. A person of ordinary skill in this art, afterlearning of this invention, will be able to choose those to suit theparticular mobile device and needs of the user.

FIGS. 15 and 16 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 16 is anend view that shows a gripping body 153 having a grip surface 155. Inthis embodiment, there is an appropriately-sized cavity 157 within thebody of the mobile device 151. The gripping body 153 is pivotallymounted at one end of the cavity 157. The gripping body 153 is normallymounted such that it lies roughly parallel to the outer surface of thebody of the mobile device 151 at that location, thereby creating a“flush” appearance. However, when pressed by a finger or other object,the gripping body 153 can swing roughly 90-degrees on its pivot downinto the cavity 157 within the mobile device, coming to a stop againstone wall of the cavity. In this position, the user's finger will be ableto find purchase against the grip surface 155 of the gripping body 153.The gripping body 153 may be spring-biased so that it normally liesroughly flush with the back of the mobile device 151. There may be oneor two (or more) of such cavities with pivoting gripping bodies. Theuser may insert a thumb into one cavity, and one or more fingers into asecond cavity. Alternatively, the user could cradle one edge 159 of themobile device against the palm of the hand, and insert one or morefingers into the cavity with the gripping body. The size of the grippingbody, the size and shape of the cavity, and the location of the cavityand gripping body on the back of the mobile device are all matters ofdesign choice.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 18 is anend view that shows another embodiment of this invention wherein thereis a gripping body 172 that is a single planar body that is pivotallymounted as shown flush with or just below the surface of the back of themobile device 171. There is a slight recessed portion 173 in the body ofthe mobile device just to the left of the pivot 174 in the drawing, andthere is a cavity 175 to the right of the pivot 174. The cavity 175 tothe right of the pivot 174 is sized and shaped to accommodate half ofthe gripping body 172 swinging downwards into the body of the mobiledevice 171. When the gripping body 172 is not in use, it will normallylie flush along the back surface of the body of the mobile device 171,providing a smooth closed appearance. The gripping body 172 may bespring-biased in this closed position. When a person presses on thegripping body to the right of the pivot with a finger, the gripping bodywill rotate (clock-wise in the drawing) such that it is positioned asshown in the drawing (that is, perpendicular to the back surface of themobile device). In this open position, half of the gripping body 172 isdisposed above the back surface and perpendicular to it, and the otherhalf of the gripping body 172 is disposed within the cavity 175 andpressing against a wall of the cavity 175 as shown. The person can thenuse the grip surface on the gripping body to hold the mobile device in amanner similar to that shown in FIG. 2. The size of the gripping body isa matter of design choice. The cavity will usually be sized and shapedto accommodate the gripping body. The location of the gripping body andthe cavity on the back of the mobile device is a matter of designchoice. While FIG. 18 shows the pivot mounted midway along the grippingbody, it is possible to mount the pivot 174 at a different point alongthe gripping body 172, such that the gripping body is asymmetrical withrespect to the pivot. In such a case, the sizes of the recessed portion173 and the cavity 175 would be adjusted to fit the particular size ofthe gripping body 172 on each side of the pivot.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 20 is anend view that shows a grip body 192 as shown that is screwed onto thebody of the mobile device 191 with one or more screws. The body of themobile device is provided with an appropriately sized and shaped hole193 through the mobile device. The screw 194 or 196 can then be startedfrom a point in the hole and screwed into the grip body, or the screw195 can be started from a point on the grip body and screwed into thebody of the mobile device (at a position where its entry into the mobiledevice does not affect the operation of the mobile device). The cavityor hole 193 shown in the figure would probably not be the actual shapeone would provide. It is used for illustrative purposes only. One ofordinary skill in this art, having read this disclosure, will be able toconceive of an obvious way to configure the hole to attach the grip bodyto the mobile device with one or more screws. The grip body 192 is atleast somewhat elongated as shown in FIG. 19 and has one or two grippingsurfaces 197 along its elongated dimension. There can be one or two (ormore) such grip bodies attached to the mobile device. There are threepossible screw positions shown in FIG. 12. Further, instead of screws,another attachment means could be substituted from screws, such asnails, tacks, rivets, rods, or the like.

FIGS. 21 and 22 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 22 is anend view that shows another embodiment of this invention wherein thereis provided at least one angled grip body 213 disposed at an edge of themobile device 211. In the drawing of FIG. 22, the front surface anddisplay screen of the mobile device 211 is on the bottom of the drawing.The angled grip body is pivotally mounted slightly above one side of theback surface of the mobile device 211. This type of mounting wouldtypically be done after the manufacture of the mobile device 211 as an“add-on”. The gripping body 213 is elongated and can be shaped like an“angle iron” with a shape in cross-section approximating an “L”. A pivotholder 215 is attached to the back surface of the mobile device near theedge, and the angled grip body 213 is pivotally attached along one edgeto the pivot holder 215 as shown in the drawing. The angled grip body213 is shown in its closed position in the drawings, but it can rotate(counterclockwise in FIG. 22) from the closed position to an openposition. In the open position, the angled grip body 213 will extend tothe left of the pivot holder along the mobile device 211 and alsoupwards. When in the open position, the angled grip body 213 will bepositioned similar to that shown in FIG. 24. The upwards projection ofthe angled grip body will provide a gripping surface that a user cangrasp with a thumb or with one or more fingers. The angled grip body 213would typically be shaped to fit snugly around the back and edge of themobile device 211.

FIGS. 23 and 24 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 24 is anend view that shows an angled grip body 233 disposed at an edge of themobile device 231. In the drawing of FIG. 24, the front surface anddisplay screen of the mobile device 231 is on the bottom of the drawing.The angled grip body 233 is pivotally mounted slightly within one sideof the back surface of the mobile device 231 on any suitable pivot means237. This type of mounting would typically be accomplished duringmanufacture of the mobile device 231. The angled grip body 233 iselongated and can be shaped like an “angle iron” with a shape incross-section approximating an “L”. There is also a slight recess 235 inthe back surface of the mobile device 231 along a portion of the backand one side. This recessed portion 235 is sized and located to receivethe angled grip body 233 when it moves to the closed position. Theangled grip body 233 is shown in its open position in the drawings, butit can rotate (clockwise in FIG. 24) from the open position to a closedposition. The angled grip body is pivotally attached to the mobiledevice 231 on the back surface of the mobile device as shown in thedrawing such that, when the gripping body is rotated clockwise, thegripping body will be seated in the recessed portion. The upwardsprojection of the angled grip body in the open position will provide agripping surface that a user can grasp with a thumb or with one or morefingers. The angled grip body 233 would typically be shaped to fitsnugly around the back and edge of the mobile device 231. The angledgrip body 233 can be spring-biased to the closed position.

A mobile device made or modified according to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 21 to 24 might have one or more angled grip body(s), either of thetype shown in FIG. 22 or FIG. 24. A person using a mobile deviceaccording to the embodiment disclosed in either FIG. 22 or FIG. 24 wouldtypically open the angled grip body and then hold the mobile device'sedge cradled in the crevice between the palm's thenar and thehypothenar, and would grasp the grip surface of the angled grip bodywith one or more fingertips. Any angled grip body can be biased,possibly with a spring, to stay in the closed position until opened by auser. After use, the biasing mechanism can move the angled grip bodyback into the closed position. Such biasing mechanisms are well-known inthis art. Alternatively, a user could grasp the grip body with the thumband hold the opposite edge of the mobile device with the fingers.

FIGS. 25 and 26 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 26 is anend view that shows another embodiment of this invention wherein amobile device 251 has a grip body 253 that can extend out of and intothe body of the mobile device 251. There is a holding member 255 placedwithin the body of the mobile device. There is also provided a grip body253. The holding member 255 includes an open well into which the gripbody 253 can be lowered, and a mechanism (not shown) which holds thegrip body 253 in one of two positions. One of the two positions is araised position wherein the grip body 253 extends out of the holdingmember 255 and extends some distance above the back surface of themobile device 251. In this open position, the grip body 253 is stillsecurely attached to the holding member 255 and thereby the mobiledevice 251. The second of the two positions is a lowered positionwherein the grip body 253 is almost fully lowered and held within thewell of the holding member 255. The mechanism which holds the grip body253 in one of two positions will securely hold the grip body 253 in aparticular position until pressure is applied downwardly on the top endof the grip body 253. The mechanism which holds the grip body 253 isfunctionally the same as a “click-pen” mechanism that raises or lowers aball-point pen out of or into its pen housing. Such mechanisms arewell-known in this art and it would be within the skill of a person ofordinary skill in this art to provide such a mechanism for thisembodiment. In use, the grip body 253 would normally reside in thelowered position. If a person wanted to use it, the person would pressdown on the top of the grip body 253 (which will still be slightlyraised to allow “clicking” it) causing the grip body 253 to be pushedupwards out of the well (by a spring within the holding member) into theraised position. The person could then use the grip body 253 inconjunction with an edge 257 of the mobile device 251 to hold andmanipulate the mobile device 251. The grip body 253 may be sized to befairly small or it could be somewhat elongated. The size and shape ofthe grip body 253 in this embodiment is a matter of design choice.Whatever size and shape the grip body 253 is chosen to take, the holdingmember 255 and the well will be designed to accommodate that size andshape.

FIGS. 27 and 28 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 28 is anend view that shows another embodiment of this invention wherein a gripbody 273 is placed on a mobile device 271 and attaches by a magnet. Themagnet chosen must be sufficiently strong that the grip body 273 is heldin place in normal use. One way to attach the grip body 273 to the backsurface of the mobile device 271 is to provide a magnet 275 in the lowerpart of the grip body 273 and then place the grip body 273 on the backsurface of the mobile device or its protective cover. If the mobiledevice's back side or its cover is not made of a material to which amagnet will easily stick, then a magnetically-attractive plate 277 canbe attached to the surface, or just under the surface, of the back ofthe mobile device 271 or its protective cover. Alternatively, the gripbody 273 can be provided with a metal plate (but no magnet) and a magnetcan be attached magnetically to the back of the mobile device 271 or itsprotective cover. When the grip body 273 is placed on the magnet, itwill stick to it. Alternatively, a first magnet can be disposed on orwithin the grip body 273, preferably near the surface which will bemounted on the mobile device. The first magnet will be arranged so thata first polarity (either N or S) will be disposed at the mountingsurface. A second magnet can be disposed on or just under the locationon the back of the mobile device 271 where the grip body 273 is to beattached magnetically. The second magnet will be arranged so that asecond polarity (either S or N) will be disposed toward the mountingsurface. Then, when the two magnets are brought near one another, theywill attract each other and the grip body 273 will be magnetically heldto the proper location on the back of the mobile device 271. The gripbody 273 can then be used in conjunction with the edge of the mobiledevice 271 to allow a person to hold and manipulate the mobile device asdiscussed above. The grip body 273 can also be a writing or designatinginstrument or a stylus or any other useful instrument in addition toserving as a grip body. The grip body 273 could also be hollow orsemi-hollow, and the hollow space could be used to store something.

FIGS. 29 and 30 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 29 showsthe back of a mobile device 291 that has a rectangular element 292integrally formed with the back of the mobile device 291 or attached toit. The rectangular element has four outer sides 293 and four innersides 294. Each of the four outer sides 293 and each of the four innersides 294 can be used as a grip surface in a manner similar to thatdescribed above for FIG. 1. FIG. 30 is an end view of FIG. 29 and showshow the rectangular element 292 is associated with the back of themobile device 291. The rectangular element 292 could, of course, be asquare element. Alternatively, instead of a rectangular element asshown, the gripping surfaces could be indentations or recesses orcavities molded into the back of the mobile device, or its casing.

FIGS. 31 and 32 show another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 31 showsthe back of a mobile device 311 that has an ovular element 312integrally formed with the back of the mobile device 311 or attached toit. The ovular element 312 has an ovular outer side 313 and an ovularinner side 314. Either the outer side 313 or the inner side 314 or bothsides of the ovular element 312 can be used as a grip surface in amanner similar to that described above for FIG. 1. FIG. 32 is an endview of FIG. 31 and shows how the ovular element 312 is associated withthe back of the mobile device 311. The ovular element 312 could, ofcourse, be a circular element. Alternatively, instead of an ovularelement as shown, the gripping surfaces could be indentations orrecesses or cavities molded into the back of the mobile device, or itscasing.

FIG. 33 shows another embodiment of this invention. Mobile devicessometimes are provided with a clip or stand such that the device can beclipped to another object, or the device can be stood up on a surface inthe manner of a picture frame with a pivoting stand on the back of thedevice. It is possible to use the edges of the clip or the stand, or themount that holds them, as a gripping surface in order for a person toconveniently and securely hold the mobile device in the person's hand.In this situation, the stand would not be in a deployed position butwould be in a closed position adjacent the back surface of the mobiledevice. In FIG. 33, there is shown a stand or clip 332 that is pivotallyattached to a mount 333 by a simple pivot mechanism 336. The mount 333is attached to or integrally formed with the back surface of the mobiledevice 331. The mount 333 in this embodiment is shaped such that theclip or stand 332 moves on its pivot completely within the mount 333when the clip or stand 332 is in the closed position. The side edges 334and 335 of the mount are approximately perpendicular to the back surfaceof the mobile device 331. As such, they provide good grip surfaces for aperson's hand. FIG. 34 shows an end view of the device shown in FIG. 33,and one can see how the clip or stand 332 fits snugly into the mount333. Depending on which hand the person uses, the person may snug theedge of the mobile device into the person's thenar and place the tips ofthe hand's fingers on the grip surface opposite the edge located in thethenar. This means of grasping the device will enable the person to holdthe device in a convenient and secure manner with either hand. The standor clip may be spring-biased to the closed position, or it may not haveany biasing. The stand or clip could snap-fit into the mount. If themount holds a clip, then the clip may not move far from the mount, butjust enough to clip onto a thin article, such as a pocket.

FIG. 35 shows another embodiment similar to FIG. 33, but wherein thestand or clip 352 does not fit into the mount 353. In FIG. 35, the mount353 is smaller. The mount 353 is attached to or integrally formed withthe back of the mobile device 351. Pivotally connected to the mount 353by a pivot means 356 is a stand or clip 352. The stand or clip 352pivots between an open position and a closed position. The sides 354 and355 of the stand or clip 352 are approximately perpendicular to the backof the mobile device. As such, the sides 354 and 355 of the stand orclip 352 provide a good grip surface that can be used by a person tohold the mobile device 351 similar to that described above for theembodiment of FIG. 33. FIG. 36 shows an end view of the device shown inFIG. 35.

FIG. 37 is a back view of a mobile device that shows another embodimentof this invention wherein a grip body 373 is provided that can be movedbetween a deployed position and a stored position. The grip body 373 isshown in its deployed position in FIG. 37. FIG. 38 is also a side viewthat shows the grip body 373 in its deployed position. There is arecessed portion 375 in the back surface of the mobile device 371 asshown in the figures. The recessed portion 375 has a major surface 377that is zig-zagged as shown in FIGS. 37 and 38. The bottom part 379 ofthe grip body 373 has also has a zig-zagged surface as shown thatcomplements the major surface 377 of the recessed portion 375. When thegrip body 373 is moved up (to the top in the drawings), it is forced upinto the deployed position by the bottom surface 377 of the recessedportion 375. FIG. 39 shows the back of the mobile device with the gripbody 373 in the closed or lowered position. This is also shown in FIG.40 which is a side view from the right side of the mobile device lookingto the left. When the grip body 373 is moved down (to the bottom in thedrawings), it also moves downward and is seated in the recessed portion375, as shown in FIG. 38, with the top surface of the grip body 373 thenlying generally flush with the back surface of the mobile device 371.While in the deployed position, a person can use the grip body and theedge of the mobile device to hold and manipulate the mobile device inthe manner discussed above.

The grip body 373 shown in FIGS. 37 to 40 can slide back and forthbetween its stored position and its deployed position by any suitablemeans. One such means would have a post extending from each end of thegrip body and a slot in the device body on each end of the recessedportion, such that the first post is inserted in the first slot, and thesecond post is inserted in the second slot. The post and slotcombination would then guide the grip body back and forth betweenpositions. Persons of ordinary skill in this art will be able to deviseother suitable means of enabling the grip body 373 to slide back andforth between positions.

It should be noted that all grip bodies shown in all embodimentsdiscussed above can be built into or attached to a protective case or aprotective enclosure that will partially surround the mobile device. Itis clearly necessary for the grip body or bodies to be disposed on theoutside of the mobile device, or whatever might cover it, for a personto be able to use the grip body or bodies to hold and manipulate themobile device.

It may be desirable to provide a roughened or textured surface for anyor all of the gripping surfaces. Since fingers and thumbs can beslippery, providing roughened or textured surfaces on any grippingsurface described in this disclosure may enable the person to hold themobile device more securely or conveniently.

The various pivot means described above can utilize any known suitablepivot means. For example, a piano hinge could be used, or a simple rodextending through a body and into slots in the mobile device, or a postand slot combination as described above could be utilized. Persons ofordinary skill in this art, having learned of the invention, will beable to devise suitable pivoting means for the embodiments that have apivoting part.

In any of the embodiments shown in FIG. 19, 25, 37, 39, 44, or 46, thegrips could click or snap into their open and closed positions by theuse of a magnet clamp, or by the use of a snap closure that utilizes asmall protrusion that goes into or past a dimple, slot, or secondprotrusion, or any other suitable means of holding the grips open orclosed.

Some mobile devices, such as tablet computers, can be used with astylus. My invention includes different means for either storing astylus in a grip handle, or in actually using the stylus to form part ofthe grip handle.

FIG. 41 shows one preferred embodiment of this invention. In thisfigure, an elongated grip handle 413 is disposed on the back side of amobile device 391. The elongated grip handle 413 can be made and mountedsuch that there is a cavity 415 within the grip handle 413 including atleast one opening into which an elongated stylus 417 can be inserted.One exterior elongated side 419 of the grip handle 413 can be somewhatflattened (and perhaps roughened) to serve as a grip surface. There maybe a small opening (not shown in the drawing) at the bottom of theelongated grip handle to allow drainage of any fluid that might enterthe cavity and to allow air to flow into and out of the cavity 415. Thecavity 415 in the grip handle 413 will be sized and shaped such that theintended stylus 417 would be held snugly within the cavity 415 but couldbe easily withdrawn by a person. It might be necessary to size thecavity's length so that a small portion of the stylus 417 remainsexteriorly of the cavity 415 even when the stylus 417 is fully inserted.Otherwise, it might be difficult to withdraw the stylus. The cavity 415can be disposed fully within the grip handle 413, or the cavity 415could utilize the back of the mobile device 411 as part of the innercavity wall, in conjunction with a hollow part of the grip handle 413.Alternatively, the grip handle 413 and cavity 415 could be integrallyformed with the back side of the mobile device 411.

FIG. 42 shows an end view of FIG. 41 looking to the left from the rightside of the mobile device. An elongated grip handle 413 having arelatively flat grip surface 419 on one side and an elongated roundcavity 415 within the grip handle 413 is shown disposed on the back sideof a mobile device 411. A stylus 417 is shown inserted in the cavity415.

FIG. 43 shows an end view of an alternative embodiment of FIG. 41 thatis semi-recessed into the body of the mobile device 411. In this figure,one can see that the grip handle 413 has been integrally formed with thebody or housing of the mobile device 411. A semi-tubular projectionprovides a grip surface 419. Within the semi-tubular projection and thebody or housing of the mobile device, there is a tubular cavity 415 intowhich a stylus 417 can be placed. The cavity 415 will have an opening tothe exterior at the top to receive the stylus 417. There may be a smallopening at the bottom to allow drainage of fluid from within the cavity415 and to allow air flow into or out of the cavity when the stylus 417is inserted or withdrawn.

In any of the embodiments of FIGS. 41-43, a “click-pen” type mechanismcould be provided to eject or receive the stylus 417.

FIG. 44 shows another preferred embodiment of this invention. In thisfigure, the stylus 422 can be mounted to the back of the mobile device421 with clip-style mounting brackets 423 and 424. When mounted, thestylus 422 itself will act as a grip handle. A person's fingers cangrasp the mounted stylus 422 while the opposing edge 425 of the mobiledevice is cradled in the palm of the hand, thereby allowing the mobiledevice 421 to be comfortably held in one hand. There may be one or moreclips utilized to hold the stylus; the choice of the number and size ofthe clips is a matter of design choice. FIG. 44 shows two relativelysmall clips 423 and 424 spaced apart a small distance less than thelength of the stylus 422. Each clip can have two clip fingers spacedapart sufficiently such that the stylus can be inserted between the clipfingers and will be securely held, but will still be removable bypulling the stylus out of the clip. Alternatively, the fingers may berelatively stiff and the stylus would be inserted into the openingbetween the fingers from the top or the bottom. The clip will need to besized such that it securely holds the stylus when inserted, and does notallow the stylus to fall out of the clips during normal use. Yet theclips must allow the stylus to be removed. The clips may be made of aresilient material such as rubber or thermoplastic. The clips can beintegrally formed with the back side of the mobile device or they can beseparate parts that are attached to the back side of the mobile device.Alternatively, the clips can be arranged to be accessed from the sideutilizing the body of the mobile device (or its protective cover) aspart of the clip.

FIG. 45 shows an end view from the bottom of the mobile device of theembodiment of FIG. 44. In this figure, the bottom clip 424 is shown tobe attached to the back surface of the mobile device 421. The clip 424has two clip fingers that hold a stylus 422 securely but removably.Alternatively, the clips can be arranged to be accessed from the sideutilizing the body of the mobile device (or its protective cover) aspart of the clip.

FIG. 46 shows an end view from the bottom of an alternative embodimentof FIG. 44 wherein the clip fingers are integrally formed with the backside of the mobile device 421 and there is a semi-tubular recessedportion cooperating with the clip fingers 424 to receive the stylus 422when it is inserted between the clip fingers. Alternatively, the clipfingers could be hinged to fold down into the body of the mobile device421 when the stylus 422 is removed, providing a flush back side for themobile device. Alternatively, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 46, onecould eliminate the clip fingers and provide a magnet (either on thestylus or the body of the mobile device) to hold the stylus 422 in therecessed portion. Alternatively, the clip fingers shown in FIG. 46 couldbe rearranged such that the stylus accessed the clip from the side,utilizing the back surface of the mobile device 421 as one of the clipfingers.

FIG. 47 shows an end view from the bottom of another alternativeembodiment of FIG. 44 wherein a small well 426 in the body of the mobiledevice contains a clip body 424 having clip fingers. The clip fingersare capable of receiving, holding, and releasing a stylus 422. The clipbody is disposed within the well 451 in the body of the mobile device421, and is capable of moving between two positions—a stored positionwithin the well 451 and a raised position wherein some or all of theclip body is situated exteriorly of the body of the mobile device 421.There is also a “click mechanism” (not shown) disposed within the bodyof the mobile device which allows a person to press the clip body or thestylus (when it is mounted in the clip) and cause the clip body to movefrom the stored position to the raised position, and vice versa. Thisclick mechanism is similar to that used by a common ballpoint pen toraise or lower the pen out of or into the pen housing. This sort ofmechanism is well-known in this art and it would be within the skill ofa person of ordinary skill here to utilize such a mechanism as describedin this embodiment. When the clip body and the stylus are in the raisedposition, a person can use the stylus as a grip surface in the mannershown in FIG. 44. When the clip body is in the stored position withinthe body of the mobile device, it leaves the back side of the mobiledevice relatively flat so that it can be placed on a flat surfacewithout rocking. Alternatively, the stylus could be held onto the clipbody with a magnet (either in the stylus or on the clip body) and theclip fingers could be eliminated or substantially shortened.Alternatively, the clip body could be arranged such that the stylus wasmounted from a side with the back side of the mobile device acting asone of the clip fingers.

In FIGS. 44-48, the clips 423 and 424 could be one long clip instead oftwo or more shorter clips.

FIG. 49 shows a back view of a mobile device, and FIG. 50 shows an endview from the bottom of FIG. 49 of another alternative embodiment ofthis invention. The stylus 462 can have disposed within it an elongatedmagnet 463. This magnet will then cause the stylus to magneticallyattach to the back surface of the mobile device 461 if that back surface(or a portion thereof) is a metal surface. The stylus 462 has a side 464that can serve as a grip surface, particularly if it is somewhatflattened or roughened. Alternatively, the metal surface could bedisposed just beneath the outer surface or the protective cover of themobile device. Alternatively, the stylus could be metal and an elongatedmagnet can be disposed on the back surface of the mobile device suchthat it will securely hold the stylus when it is brought into contactwith the magnet. Alternatively, there can be a first elongated magnet inthe stylus and a second elongated magnet disposed on the back side ofthe mobile device (or just beneath the back side's surface or justbeneath a protective cover). As long as the polarities of the twomagnets are opposite, they will attract each other and hold the stylusto the back of the mobile device providing a grip surface for the personto use. The cooperating magnets, or magnet and metal surface, can beelongated, or there can be plural smaller units that are disposedopposite one another when the stylus is mounted on the back side of themobile device. Alternatively, a magnet or magnetic base could be mountedto the back side of the mobile device with an adhesive or other suitableattachment means.

In any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 41-50, either side of thestylus and/or clips may be used as a gripping surface. In theembodiments shown in FIGS. 44-48, the clips may be elongated to form thegripping surface(s) or to form part of the gripping surface(s).

Manufacturers of mobile devices have recently introduced mobile devicesthat are curved such that the display screen is concavely curved and theback surface of the mobile device is convexly curved. The curvature maybe in the width dimension or in the length dimension or in both. Thiscurvature of the entire device enables the device to fit morecomfortably in the palm of a person's hand. Although the embodimentsshown in this disclosure all show flat mobile devices with flat displayscreens and flat back surfaces, all of the embodiments can easily beadapted to work with a curved mobile device. Embodiments like thoseshown in this disclosure but adapted for a curved mobile device comewithin the scope of this invention.

Further, manufacturers are expected to soon introduce mobile devicesthat are substantially flexible. These flexible mobile devices may becapable of being wound up like a scroll, or even folded. The teachingsof this invention would apply equally well to such scrolled or foldedmobile devices because, when unscrolled or unfolded, they will stillneed to be held in a hand. The teachings of this invention can,therefore, be adapted for use on scrolled or folded mobile devices oncethey become practical.

It should be noted that any embodiment that shows a grip handle, orstylus used as a grip handle, mounted on the back side of the mobiledevice could also be mounted on the back side of the protective cover ofthe mobile device.

The foregoing embodiments illustrate only some possible embodiments ofthis invention. Persons of ordinary skill who read this disclosure willbe able to conceive additional embodiments that come within the scope ofthis invention. This invention is intended to be limited only by thefollowing claims.

I claim:
 1. A mobile device comprising two side edges and at least onegripping surface disposed between the two side edges.
 2. The mobiledevice of claim 1 wherein the gripping surface is flat and positionedperpendicular to the mobile device.